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The Documentary: Disagreeing better

Anti-Trump v Pro-Trump

22/01/2020 GMT

Disagreeing better

BBC World Service - The Documentary, Disagreeing better

Why do we hold our opponents in contempt?

Why do we hold our opponents in contempt? Former British politician Douglas Alexander believes that disagreement is good - it is how the best arguments get refined. But, today, public discourse has become so ill-tempered, snide and lacking in respect that we are no longer engaged in a battle of ideas but a slanging match. He talks to people with personal tales about how we might all raise our game and disagree better, among them a relationship counsellor, an ex-soldier, a peace broker and a foster mother. Their tips? Civility is not enough. And knowledge is essential, as well as radical honesty, fierce intimacy and openness. So, dial down the rhetoric, rein in the insults - they will persuade no-one that your opinion is worth listening to - and pay attention.

(Photo: An anti-Trump protester (L) argues with Trump supporter Alex Carillo near the president's fundraiser in Beverly Hills. Credit: Kyle Grillot/AFP/Getty Images)

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